IPL 2025 Final Match Preview: Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Punjab Kings
The stage is set for a historic conclusion to the 18th season of the Indian Premier League as Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) face Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the IPL 2025 final. Both teams, after years of near-misses, are eyeing their maiden IPL title, ensuring that a new champion will be crowned at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on June 3, 2025, at 7:30 PM IST.
Match Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Fixture | Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Punjab Kings |
| Date & Time | June 3, 2025, 7:30 PM IST |
| Venue | Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad |
| Live Telecast | Star Sports Network |
| Live Streaming | JioCinema, Hotstar |
Road to the Final
RCB's Journey:
RCB finished second in the league stage with 19 points, showcasing consistent performances and a strong away record—winning all seven away games. They stormed into the final after a dominant eight-wicket win over PBKS in Qualifier 1, led by Phil Salt's explosive batting and a disciplined bowling attack.
PBKS's Journey:
PBKS topped the league table, also with 19 points, and bounced back from their Qualifier 1 defeat by overcoming Mumbai Indians in a rain-affected Qualifier 2. Captain Shreyas Iyer's unbeaten 87 in the chase against MI was pivotal, exemplifying their resilience and ability to recover quickly from setbacks.
Head-to-Head and Previous Finals
| Team | Finals Played | Finals Won | Head-to-Head (Total Matches) |
|---|---|---|---|
| RCB | 3 | 0 | 18 wins |
| PBKS | 1 | 0 | 18 wins |
- Both teams have an identical head-to-head record: 18 wins each in 36 encounters.
- RCB have lost all three of their previous finals (2009, 2011, 2016), while PBKS lost their only final in 2014.
Key Players to Watch
Royal Challengers Bengaluru:
- Virat Kohli: 614 runs this season at an average of 55.82 and a strike rate of 146.53, the backbone of RCB's batting.
- Phil Salt: Provided explosive starts, crucial in Qualifier 1.
- Josh Hazlewood: Leading wicket-taker for RCB with 21 wickets in 11 games.
Punjab Kings:
- Shreyas Iyer: Inspirational captain, match-winning 87* in Qualifier 2.
- Josh Inglis & Priyansh Arya: Consistent contributors with the bat.
- Arshdeep Singh: Key strike bowler, especially in the powerplay and death overs.
Tactics, Venue, and Conditions
- Venue: Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad—known for high-scoring games and large boundaries.
- Weather: Slight risk of afternoon showers, but clear skies expected during the match. A 120-minute buffer and a reserve day are in place in case of rain.
- Pitch: Traditionally offers good bounce and carry, favoring both batters and fast bowlers.
What's at Stake?
- Both teams are desperate to break their title droughts, adding immense pressure and excitement.
- If rain washes out both match days, PBKS, as the higher-ranked league team, will be declared champions.
Key Player Battles
- Virat Kohli vs Arshdeep Singh: Kohli's form against PBKS's pace spearhead could set the tone.
- Shreyas Iyer vs Josh Hazlewood: The PBKS captain's ability to handle RCB's pace will be crucial.
- Middle-order duels: The finishing abilities of both teams have been tested under pressure throughout the playoffs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. When and where is the IPL 2025 final?
The final is on June 3, 2025, at 7:30 PM IST, at Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad.
2. Which teams are playing in the final?
Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Punjab Kings.
3. Where can I watch the IPL 2025 final live?
Live telecast on Star Sports Network; live streaming on JioCinema and Hotstar.
4. Who has the better head-to-head record?
Both teams are tied with 18 wins each in 36 matches.
5. What happens if rain washes out the final?
There is a reserve day. If the match cannot be completed, PBKS will be declared champions for finishing higher in the league stage.
6. Who are the key players in the final?
RCB: Virat Kohli, Phil Salt, Josh Hazlewood; PBKS: Shreyas Iyer, Josh Inglis, Arshdeep Singh.
7. Have either team won the IPL before?
No, both teams are seeking their first IPL title.
8. What is the prize money for the winner?
The winner receives ₹20 crore, and the runner-up gets ₹13 crore.
Final Thoughts
This IPL 2025 final is not just a battle for the trophy but a contest of legacies, redemption, and the crowning of a new champion. With both teams evenly matched and hungry for their first title, fans can expect a thrilling, high-stakes encounter in Ahmedabad.
Stay tuned for live updates and post-match analysis as IPL history is made tonight!
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